CONTINUO Meaning and
Definition
-
Continuo, also known as basso continuo or simply figured bass, is a musical term used to describe a method of accompaniment typically found in Western European music from the Baroque period. It refers to the practice of playing a bass line, usually performed by a keyboard instrument such as harpsichord or organ, which is supported by harmonically-related chords or intervals.
The continuo part serves as a foundation for the other instruments or voices in an ensemble or vocal setting. It provides both harmonic support and rhythmic stability, creating a sense of structure and coherence in the music. While the bass part is notated, the realization of the accompaniment is left to the performer, who uses a set of figures or numbers written below the bass line, known as the figured bass, to indicate the intended harmonies.
The continuo player is responsible for improvising or reading the figures and selecting appropriate chords or intervals to accompany the melodic lines above. This flexibility gives the continuo player a certain freedom for interpretation and embellishment. The continuo part often interacts with the melodic lines, either by echoing or dialoguing with them, enhancing the overall musical texture and adding depth to the composition.
Overall, continuo is a fundamental element of Baroque music, blending harmonic support and improvisational freedom to create a rich and harmonically sophisticated accompaniment that complements the main voices or instruments.
Common Misspellings for CONTINUO
- xontinuo
- vontinuo
- fontinuo
- dontinuo
- cintinuo
- ckntinuo
- clntinuo
- cpntinuo
- c0ntinuo
- c9ntinuo
- cobtinuo
- comtinuo
- cojtinuo
- cohtinuo
- conrinuo
- confinuo
- conginuo
- conyinuo
- con6inuo
Etymology of CONTINUO
The word "continuo" has its etymology in Latin. It is derived from the Latin verb "continuare", meaning "to continue" or "to join together". In music, "continuo" refers to a method of providing a harmonic foundation or accompaniment, typically played on a keyboard instrument, such as a harpsichord or organ, and supported by a bass instrument, like a cello or bassoon. The term "continuo" appeared in Italian musical treatises in the 17th century, ultimately becoming a standard term in the Baroque period.
Similar spelling words for CONTINUO
- continence,
- content,
- contention,
- contents,
- continent,
- continuant,
- contain,
- continuum,
- continued,
- contingence,
- contingency,
- commuting,
- continue,
- contaminant,
- contingent,
- continual,
- contini,
- continually,
- continuity,
- continency,
- contentious,
- contend,
- continuous,
- continuing,
- counting,
- continental,
- contaminate,
- contemn,
- continuance.
Infographic
Add the infographic to your website:
